Mardi Gras Magic: Donuts with the Dean Transforms Business Tuesday at Langston
In an innovative twist to engage students, the new Business School Dean at Langston University introduced “Donuts with the Dean,” a delightful addition to the traditional Business Tuesday. The inaugural event on February 13th, coinciding with Fat Tuesday, brought a taste of Mardi Gras and Louisiana’s vibrant energy to campus. With over 300 donuts and a Mardi Gras-themed decor, the event attracted over 50 attendees from various disciplines, including administrators, faculty, and staff. This successful gathering made academia fun and interesting and underscored the importance of creative thinking in educational engagement. The dean’s vision of blending innovative teaching with festive, informal student interactions promises Langston’s academic community an exciting future.
Open Mic Talk Show (OKC)
The Langston University School of Business was on the Open Mic Talk Show today! From left: Dean Dr. Daryl Green, Computer Science majors Deonna Owens and LaTasha Mitchell, and Chair Professor Ralph Grayson.
This week was crazy for me as we received media attention from across the country on our faculty analysis of a current issue in society. We spotlighted the significant impacts of AI technology on the African American community through a media release that led to several enlightening interviews, notably on the Open Mic Talk Show across Heart and Soul stations in Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
I cannot express enough gratitude to Professor Grayson, Chair of the Computer Science Program, for his exceptional mentorship that prepared our students, Deonna Owens and LaTasha Mitchell, for their interviews. Their professionalism and systematic approach to each question were truly impressive. LaTasha, a freshman, and Deonna showcased Professor Grayson’s dynamic and engaging teaching methods that stand out in today’s educational landscape.
Langston University prides itself on molding bright, forward-thinking individuals, a tradition that Professor Grayson and his program exemplify. Our professors’ dedication to pouring into our students, fostering their growth, and preparing them to excel in the face of challenges makes Langston unique.
Shaping Futures: The Intersection of Education and Innovation at Langston
This week’s appearance on the Living Oklahoma Talk Show on Fox25 alongside Professor Grayson marked another milestone in our mission to illuminate the significance of Langston University’s education. With Kayla Lyons, a wonderfully engaging host, leading the conversation, we delved into the invaluable essence of a Langston business education and its role in equipping our students to navigate and shape the future. I want to send out my appreciation to Langston’s Communications Director, Heleen Sheets, who, by our side, was nothing short of inspiring. Heleen’s unwavering support and hands-on approach were instrumental as we navigated through our enlightening appearance on the Living Oklahoma Talk Show on Fox25 and our impactful engagement during the Open Mic sessions. Her dedication to being behind the scenes, actively participating, capturing moments, and ensuring we were prepared and informed set a remarkable standard.
With his deep insights, Professor Grayson highlighted the impacts of AI technology on the Black community and the proactive steps we’re taking at Langston to address these challenges. Our discussion underscored the critical nature of these issues and showcased Langston’s faculty’s dedication to preparing our students for the complexities of the modern world.
As two well-educated Black males in academia discussing such a pivotal topic, we hope to inspire our students and the broader community to engage with and contribute to these essential conversations. Langston University stands at the forefront of this endeavor, embodying the principle that education is the most powerful tool to effect positive change.
Unity and Legacy: Celebrating Black Excellence at St. John’s Langston Day
As I reflect on the culmination of Black History Month, my heart is filled with the job from my experience today at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. I am proud to say this place is my spiritual home. Under the spirited leadership of Dr. Major L. Jemison and the dedicated chairmanship of Sister Jackie Jemison, the church stood as a beacon of remembrance and celebration of Black history, countering any efforts to obscure our rich heritage. Their declaration that “St. John is the best church this side of Judgment” resonates deeply, as the church made history with its distinguished leaders.
The program showcased Langston’s famous choir, elevating the worship service. It was heartwarming to see Langston Day brought to life, a testament to the deep connections between our institution and the community. Witnessing the presence of President Jackson, VP Dr. Peterson, Nursing Dean Hunter, and various administrators, alongside faculty like Dr. Ahmed and Dr. Mambula, staff such as Mrs. O’Bryan, and critical business supporters like University College Director Kelly O’Bryan, filled me with immense gratitude. Their support, especially given my recent arrival two months ago, underscores the profound sense of fellowship that binds us.
This unity was further exemplified by the honors bestowed upon Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis, who was celebrated for his trailblazing role as the first Black individual in his position. Mr. Josh Trimble of Bethany Children’s Hospital was recognized for his significant contributions. Their achievements, celebrated within the sacred walls of St. John, underline the pivotal role of the church in nurturing leaders and fostering community engagement.
What we do as educators matters! Langston’s administration, faculty, and staff’s dedication to participating in a weekend event speaks volumes of their commitment to education and a shared vision of progress and unity. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring strength found in our community and the pivotal role of faith and fellowship in advancing our collective journey. The connection between Black colleges and the Black church is a vital one, often misunderstood by predominantly white institutions. This bond goes beyond shared heritage; it is a foundation for mutual support, cultural preservation, and collective advancement.
Celebrating the Legacy of African American Quilting at the Scissor Tale Quilt Guild Exhibit: Interfacing with Our Quilting Divas in OKC
The Scissor Tale Quilt Guild’s African American Quilt Exhibit and Open House, held on February 24th and 25th, was a vibrant showcase of quilting’s deep roots and rich significance in the Black community. Hosted at the historic home of Dr. W.H. Slaughter, Oklahoma City’s first Black doctor, the event provided a unique backdrop that intertwined the fabric of history with the art of quilting. For African Americans, quilting has been a medium of storytelling, resistance, and community bonding, carrying narratives from generation to generation. I was glad to be invited to attend.
Estraletta Green’s journey into quilting, mentored by Beverly Kirk, the acknowledged quilting queen, illustrates the personal and collective stories woven into each quilt. Beverly’s work, including a piece on 13 historical Black towns, is not just art but a living history lesson. The exhibit, featuring quilts from church members like Beverly Kirk, Estraletta Green, Donna Vaugh, and Evelyn Spriggs, was a testament to the Black quilting community’s skill, creativity, and cultural heritage.
The significance of quilting extends beyond its aesthetic value, serving as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of the African American experience. As we celebrate these artisans and their contributions, we also acknowledge the pivotal role quilting plays in preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of Black history and culture.
